Animal Control Officer Salary in 2025

Animal control officers (ACOs) play a critical role in public safety, animal welfare, and enforcement of laws related to animals. As of 2025, salaries in this field continue to show steady growth, driven by rising demand and expanded responsibilities. Whether you’re considering this career or looking to advance, understanding salary trends can help you make informed decisions.

🧾 Average Animal Control Officer Salary in 2025

In 2025, the average salary for an animal control officer in the United States ranges from:

Low-end: $38,000 per year
Median: $52,000 – $58,000 per year
High-end (senior roles or large metro areas): $70,000 – $85,000+ per year

Some senior lead animal control officers or those in supervisory roles can earn upwards of $90,000 to $103,000, especially in states like California, New York, or Washington.

🎯 Key Factors Influencing Animal Control Officer Salaries

Several variables influence how much an animal control officer can earn:

📍 1. Location

Urban areas and counties with large budgets often offer higher pay.
Coastal and northern states typically pay more than rural or southern areas.

📈 2. Experience Level

Entry-level (0–2 years): $38,000 – $46,000
Mid-career (3–7 years): $48,000 – $60,000
Experienced (8+ years): $65,000 – $80,000
Senior Lead/Navigators: $90,000 – $103,000+

🏆 3. Certifications & Education

Certifications such as the National Animal Control Association (NACA) Certification can lead to higher salaries.
An associate or bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, animal science, or public administration is often preferred and may increase earning potential.

👔 4. Job Role and Responsibilities

Officers in leadership positions or specialized roles (e.g., wildlife investigator, shelter manager) tend to earn more.

🕒 5. Overtime and Shift Differentials

Many officers work irregular hours and may receive overtime pay, night differentials, and on-call stipends—adding thousands to their base salary annually.

📊 Job Market Trends in 2025

🚀 Growing Demand

Increased focus on animal welfare, public health, and disaster response has created more demand for trained ACOs.
Animal hoarding cases and wildlife conflicts are on the rise, expanding job scopes.

🌎 Environmental and Social Impact

Animal control officers are increasingly involved in community education, wildlife rescue, and disaster recovery, requiring more nuanced skills and offering higher pay.

🧮 Technology Integration

Use of tracking software, drones, and digital incident reporting is changing the skill set required—tech-savvy officers are in higher demand.

🎁 Benefits and Perks

Most animal control officers receive a comprehensive benefits package:

Health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement plans (pensions or 401k options)
Paid time off and sick leave
Uniform and equipment stipends
On-the-job training and professional development

🎓 Recommended Certifications & Training

To increase earning potential in this career, consider pursuing:

NACA Level I & II Certification
Animal Cruelty Investigation Training
Certified Euthanasia Technician (where applicable)
Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in Animal Science, Criminology, or Public Health

Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for related coursework.

🔮 Job Outlook: 2025 and Beyond

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects steady growth in public service jobs, including animal control. Key outlook highlights:

Job growth: Estimated 5–8% increase through 2030
High turnover: Creates openings for new applicants regularly
Advancement opportunities: From field officer to supervisor, investigator, or shelter manager

✅ Final Thoughts

Becoming an animal control officer in 2025 offers not only a stable salary but also meaningful, community-focused work. With the right experience, education, and certifications, professionals in this field can earn well above the national average and find long-term career satisfaction.

Quick Summary:

Average Salary (2025): $52,000–$58,000
High-End Roles: Up to $103,000+
Top Influences: Location, experience, education, role type
Certifications Help: NACA, cruelty investigation, tech skills
Outlook: Strong job growth with room for advancement